There is growing global recognition that women play multiple roles both within
violent extremist organisations and in preventing and countering violent extremism
(P/CVE). However, very little is known about women and violent extremism in the
context of Kenya.

Through focus group discussions with women in affected communities and
individual interviews with three al-Shabaab returnees and other stakeholders –
including government officials, donors and civil society – this study aimed to gain
insights into the roles that women play in relation to violent extremism in Kenya,
the gendered impacts of radicalisation and violent extremism, and the efficacy of
current responses to violent extremism in relation to women.